Recognising the Signs of Anxiety in Children and Effective Coping Strategies

What is Anxiety and Is It Normal in Children?

Most people are aware of anxiety and anxiety disorders in adults, but they often don't realise that children can experience anxiety as well. This anxiety is sometimes misinterpreted as bad behaviour, tantrums, or meltdowns.

Tantrums are quite common in two-year-old children. At this stage, children have limited vocabulary, making it difficult for them to express their frustrations. By the age of three, tantrums should typically subside. However, if tantrums persist beyond this age, it may be a sign of underlying anxiety. While most children learn to cope with the stresses that cause tantrums, some may need additional support. This is where an Occupational Therapist can help.

What to Look Out For: Observing Anxiety in Children

Recognising anxiety in children can be challenging, but there are key signs to watch for:

• Overreaction to Minor Issues: Large emotional responses to trivial matters may indicate anxiety.

• Fight or Flight Responses: Anxious children are often in "survival mode," which means they may lack tolerance for basic tasks. When challenged, they might exhibit fight-or-flight behaviours, such as becoming physically aggressive or attempting to run away.

• Heightened Stress Levels: Anxious children are generally highly stressed, which can manifest in difficulty managing everyday situations.

  
  

By observing these behaviours, parents and caregivers can better understand the challenges their child may be facing.

How Occupational Therapy Can Help

At In Sync Kids Occupational Therapy, we conduct comprehensive developmental assessments to identify the underlying causes of anxiety. These causes may include delayed skills or age-inappropriate emotional regulation.

Our Occupational Therapists work closely with children and their families to:

• Develop age-appropriate skills.

• Provide strategies to build confidence.

• Assist children in coping with overwhelming experiences.

We believe in a family-centered approach, ensuring that parents and caregivers are actively involved in the therapy process.

For more information or to book an assessment, contact us today.